Vacek, Louis Frank (1923-2014)
[Family] Father: Joseph Vacek, Mother: Frances Drapela, Spouse: Elda Dahse [Cemetery] Oak Knoll Cemetery (C)
Bellville Times
Louis Frank Vacek, 91, died peacefully at home and went to be with our Lord on Sept. 30, 2014.
He was born on Sept. 4, 1923, to Joseph and Frances ( Drapela) Vacek in Taiton, TX, at his grandparents' house and grew up on a farm with eight brothers and sisters in Fairchilds, TX.
He met the love of his life, Elda Dahse, at a dance in Pleak, TX, and they were married on Aug. 22, 1944, 70 years ago, at Holy Catholic Rosary Church in Rosenberg.
With open arms, we know he was welcomed home into Heaven by his sweet mother and dad, and his departed sisters Hattie Krenek, Frances Kaminski, and Annie Mae Mensik; and brothers Raymond, Joe Frank, Jr., Ludy and Johnny Vacek.
Those left to mourn his passing are his wife Elda, son Garry Vacek and wife Debbie; daughter Carol Turner and husband Mike; sister Ellen Warren; brothers and sisters -in-law Betty and Jack Clark, Jean and Don Tarver and Doris Vacek; grandchildren Angela (Alex) Castano, Wayne (Melissa) Vacek, Stephen (Kim) Vacek, Jennifer Turner and Mason Turner (Tammie Ellington); and 14 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and an abundance of friends, including his caregivers Theresa, Gloria, Monisha, Sylvia and Billie Jean.
Louis was an active member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church since May of 1951 when he moved his family to Bellville from Rosenberg to take over the Pearl Beer Distributorship in Austin County. He sponsored the Pearl Beer Bowling Team and was a member of the Austin Co. Fair Board and supporter of the youth auction and Bellville Fireman.
He sponsored Little League Baseball in the1950's; he was on the board of directors at First National Bank, a life member of the Lions Club where he previously and so proudly held the title of Tail Twister. He was presented with his 75 year KJT membership pin in 2009. At his church, he was a member of the Holy Name society and the Knights of Columbus.
Louie was a wonderful practical joker - full of wisdom and humor, he loved and lived life to the fullest and was the rare person who truly never said a bad word about anyone.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, dominoes, tending to his cows, dancing to polka music with Elda and following the Houston Astros. He loved to barbecue, cook steaks and fry fish for his family and friends at the camphouse. What memories he gave us!
Louie Vacek was the foundation of our family and was lovingly known as “Pepaâ€. He built a life centered around his family and his faith in God. He taught us the meaning of family through his devotion to God and the unconditional love and support he gave to all of us for so many years. He brought the family together and will be tremendously missed by all of us who were so blessed to have him in our lives, and his memories will always be cherished and kept close to our hearts.
“Spanem Bohem†Pepa Louie!
Pallbearers were Wayne Vacek, Mason Turner, Stephen Vacek, Daniel Castano, Chad Guest and Joe Jackson.
Visitation was be on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2014, from 3-5 p.m. with a wake at 4-00pm at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Bellville.
The Mass of Resurrection was at 11 a.m., Monday, Oct. 6, 2014 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Bellville with Father Tim Bucek as Celebrant. Entombment at Oak Knoll Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to please give to the charity or foundation of your choice in his name.
Posted by Bruce White
Vaeth, Jerome Marcus (1926-2011)
[Veteran] WW2, SGT, US Army () , FG
Jerome Marcus Vaeth Born May 6, 1926 in Utica, New York. Died January 12, 2011. Predeceased by his parents, Marcus and Frances Vaeth.
Moved to Texas in 1998 from Long Island, NY in order to be near his beloved daughter and her husband Duncan.
Graduated from St. Francis de Sales High School and Syracuse University. Met and married his devoted wife, Mary, in NY on Long Island. They recently celebrated 50 years of marriage on a cruise to Alaska with their daughter and son-in-law.
Jerome served his nation, his friends and neighbors as a Sergeant in the 30th Infantry Division, 117th Regiment, Anti-Tank Company, and participated in the drive to relieve Bastogne in the Battle of the Bulge. He then participated in the Roer Offensive and the divisions drive to Magdeburg on the Elbe in Germany that closed out the division's combat service in Europe as the Russians took Berlin as the war ended.
Sports cars and racing were a lifelong passion. He participated in races at Lime Rock, Connecticut and Bridgehampton, Long Island. Friends and family said he had gasoline in his veins. He passed along this love of sports cars to his daughter who delighted him with her love of racing. She often challenged him to road races. He was also an avid tennis player. For many years he created and displayed abstract art paintings.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Mary, and daughter Nancy Vaeth-DuBroff, the light of his life, and his much loved son-in-law, Duncan DuBroff. Also his brother Marcus Vaeth and wife Cynthia, brothers-in-law, Robert MacStoker and William Hess and wife Patricia. Also surviving are step granddaughter, Stephanie Acosta and husband Edgar and step great granddaughter, Matilde. Also numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held on Friday, January 14, 2011 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. with a Wake Service followed by a scriptural rosary to be held at 7:00 P.M. and a Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at 2:00 P.M. all from Guardian Angel Catholic Church, 2610 Demel, Wallis, TX 77485 www.knesekfuneralhome.com
Published in Houston Chronicle on January 14, 2011
Vaeth, Mary Teresa (MacStoker) (1931-2024)
Maiden Name: MacStoker [Family] Father: Frank MacStoker, Mother: Margaret M Dunn, Spouse: Jerome Marcus Vaeth [Cemetery] Guardian Angel Cemetery () , FG
Mary Teresa MacStoker Vaeth- Born August 7, 1931 in Garden City, New York. Died July 8, 2024. Predeceased by her beloved husband Jerome (Jerry) Marcus Vaeth; her parents, Margaret and Frank MacStoker, and her brother William Hess.
Mary graduated from Garden City High School, Nassau Community College, and Molloy College where she received a teaching certificate from NY State. She earned her Master of Science Degree from Adelphi University. She met the love of her life Jerry and married in 1953 at St. Anne’s Church in Garden City. They lived on Long Island until they retired and moved to Weston Lakes in Fulshear, TX to be near their daughter Nancy and her husband Duncan.
Teaching and writing were lifelong passions. She spent much of her teaching career at Davison Avenue Elementary in Malverne, NY where she taught 4th Grade. Once she got to Texas, she decided she missed teaching so she went to work as a teacher and then Administrator for Simonton Christian Academy. She absolutely loved her work and enjoyed hearing about the future accomplishments of her former students.
She also loved to write and was always the one asked to write a poem for a co-worker’s birthday celebration, anniversary, retirement or promotion. After retirement, she wrote for a local publication in Weston Lakes. An avid cat lover, she almost always had a cat living in her home. Her cat Reggie and his antics provided a steady stream of material for her writing.
Hobbies included gardening and decorating the house for every holiday imaginable. She passed her over-the-top holiday décor gene onto her daughter who proudly carries on the tradition.
Survivors include her daughter Nancy Vaeth-DuBroff and son-in-law Duncan DuBroff. Also her brother Robert Macstoker, step-granddaughter Stephanie DuBroff-Acosta, her husband Edgar and their daughter Matilde, numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.
Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, July 25 at 11 am at Guardian Angel Catholic Church, 2610 Demel, Wallis, TX 77485. Graveside service to follow at the Guardian Angel Catholic Cemetery.
https://www.knesekfuneralhome.com/obituary/mary-vaeth
Vail, Bobby Lee (1934-2005)
[Veteran] SGT, US Army, QMC [Family] Father: Ellsworth Vail, Mother: Elsie J. Stoltz () , FG
Bobby Lee Vail, 70, of Sealy, Texas passed away Monday, March 21, 2005. Funeral services at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sealy with Rev. Bill Webb and Rev. Doug Laws officiating. Interment in the Cook-Walden Forest Oak Cemetery in Austin, Texas.
Bobby Lee Vail was born November 23, 1934 to Ellsworth Vail and Elsie (Stoltz) Vail in Olney, Illinois. He was raised in Olney and received his education in Indiana and Illinois. On August 29, 1965, Bob was joined in marriage to the former Delma Banks with a ceremony held in Decatur, Illinois. Bob serviced his country during the Vietnam Era in the United States Army Quartermaster Corps attaining the rank of sergeant. Bob taught accounting and Federal Tax at Sparks Business College in Shelbyville, Illinois for 10 years. He later was employed by Atlantic Richfield and Lyondell Petrochemical Co. for 30 years, attaining the office of Finance Control Manager.
He is survived by his wife, Delma of Sealy, Texas; two daughters, a son, and three grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters Mariam, Mary and Betty; brothers, Glen and Pat; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents Ellsworth and Elsie Vail, one brother Kenneth Vail of Olney, Illinois, and sisters-in-law, Helen Vail and Orpha Vail of Olney.
Van Dorn, Isaac (1801-1860)
SFA Old 300, Notable person [Veteran] Jon 1932 Aylett C. Buckner's company at the battle of Velasco [Family] Spouse: Amanda Malvina Reader () , FG , FS
ExternalWebsite; TSHA; ; https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/van-dorn-isaac
VanSandt, Helen Rosalie (Shelton) (1914-2015)
Maiden Name: Shelton [Family] Father: Toby Shelton, Mother: Bertha, Spouse: Bill VanSandt ()
Bellville Times
Helen Rosalie (Shelton) VanSandt, 101, of Bellville, passed away Tuesday, April 21, 2015, in Bellville.
She was born April 20, 1914, in Wellington, Kansas, the daughter of Toby and Bertha (Meeker) Shelton. Helen grew up and attended schools in Kansas. She was united in marriage to Bill VanSandt, on Nov. 3, 1934. Helen and Bill moved to Texas in 1948.
At the age of 54, Helen attended Blinn College of Vocational Nursing and obtained her LVN License, graduating on September 10, 1968. She was a dedicated clinic nurse for Dr. Fuller, at the Bellville Clinic and was an attending nurse for the residents at Sweetbriar and Colonial Belle Nursing Homes and the Bellville General Hospital. Helen had tremendous craftsmanship; she enjoyed all kinds of crafts, Christmas decorations and crocheting.
You may not have known her as an actress, or song and dance performer with Aunt Bertha and Uncle Toby Medicine Show, or “straight man†for the comedy team The Vans. She was all of these things and more when she spread love and joy wherever she was for over 100 years.
Helen is survived by her daughters Donna Williamson and her husband, Kenneth, of Bellville and Dinah Dittert of Katy; grandchildren Tracy, Di, Jo, Chris and Van; and great grandchildren Alie, Greg, Sara, Megan, Brandy, Carly, Chandler, Gaston, Carmen and Jake. She is also survived by her three great-great grandchildren.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Toby and Bertha Shelton, husband, Bill VanSandt, grandson, Curt Williamson, and son-in-law, Judge, J. Lee Dittert, Jr.
Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to their favorite charity.
Graveside service was held at 3 p.m., Thursday, April 23, 2015, in the Pilgrims Rest Cemetery, with Pastors Malcolm Monroe and Amy Haralson officiating.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of the Schmidt Funeral Home, P.O. Box 610, 12029 Hwy. 36 S., Bellville, Texas 77418. (979)865-2424 -www.schmidtfunerals.com
Posted by Bruce White
Varner, Martin (1785-1844)
SFA Old 300, Notable person [Veteran] Early Wars [Family] Father: Varner Martin Jr, Mother: Reich Elizabeth, Spouse: Elizabeth Eveline Inglish () , FG , FS
ExternalWebsite; TSHA; ; https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/varner-martin
Vasquez, Paul (1970-2013)
[Family] Father: Armando Vasquez, Mother: Betty, Spouse: Lois (C)
Bellville Times
Paul Vasquez was born Feb. 10, 1970, in Galveston, to Armando and Betty Vasquez. He grew up in Santa Fe and graduated from Santa Fe High School in 1989. He played football for the Santa Fe Indians.
After High School, he moved to Bellville and attended Blinn College. He worked at Red Cap, where he met his future bride. Paul and Lois dated for five years before marrying on April 9, 1994. They remained in Bellville, raising their two precious daughters, Kayla and Ashley.
As a boy, he would walk to Arcadia Christian Church, a block from his home. He accepted Christ at age 8 and was baptized. He joined First Baptist Church Bellville in April of 1992. He loved the Lord and was a Christian role model for his family. Every Saturday night, he would make sure they had everything ready to go for Sunday morning.
In 1995, Paul went to work for Blue Bell Creameries. He started out as a crane operator on the early morning shift. Shortly after, he found out he was to be the very proud father of Kayla Raeann. A few years later, he would be proud daddy to his second angel, Ashley Nicole. As Paul continued to work at Blue Bell, he was promoted to Section Manager of Hardening and Palletizing. Always trying to set a good example, he would leave extra early for work, just in case, so he would not be late. He enjoyed his job and all the people he worked with.
Paul spent his time with his family, was involved in all his girl's activities, and worked out at Rusty's Gym. In his spare time, he even competed in body building contests. He loved coaching softball and soccer, as well as attending his daughters' cheer competitions. Always the loving husband and father, he would be there to cheer and support his family in all their school and other activities. Even when he wasn't the coach, he was coaching from the stands. He loved his family and would do anything to help them out.
Paul was always smiling and laughing, positive and upbeat. He loved talking to anyone, whether he knew them or not. He was ready to listen and offer words of encouragement to whoever needed it. He never met a stranger. He could always find the good in any situation, and tell you it would be ok.
The Lord called Paul home suddenly on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2013, at the age of 43. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Even though his family has lost a husband, father, son and brother, they know they have gained a guardian angel.
Paul is preceded in death by his dad, Armando G. Vasquez.
He is survived by his wife, Lois; daughters, Kayla and Ashley; mom, Betty Thompson and her husband Harry; Brothers, Bobby Vasquez, wife, Alleen, Tony Purcell, wife, Allyson, and their children, Ricky and Carlee, J.R.Vasquez, Brian Vasquez, and daughter Emma; Sisters, Jo Anne Pearson, husband, Kenny, and their sons, Joshua and Brandon, Bea Vasquez, and her daughter Allison, Christina Harrison, husband, Tom, and their son Jordan Sachitano, Julie Jehling, husband Robert, and their children Bryce Tate and Morgan Tate; In-laws, Floyd and Ann Merten; Brother-in-law, Ray Merten; Sister-in-law, Donna Reyes, husband Hector, and their son Matthew.
Visitation was held at Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel, 842 E. Main, Bellville, Wednesday, August 28, from 5-00 - 8-00 p.m.
Funeral Services will be held at First Baptist Church, Bellville, 504 E. Strauss, Bellville on Thursday, August 29 at 11 a.m.
Posted by Joy Neely
Vazansky, Emilie Marie "Millie" (Lamer) (1921-2011)
Maiden Name: Lamer, Nickname: Millie [Family] Father: John Lewis Lamer, Mother: Mary A. Bednar, Spouse: John Christopher Vazansky [Cemetery] Guardian Angel Cemetery () , FG
Fort Bend Herald, February 9, 2011-
Funeral services for Millie "Mimi" Vazansky, 89, of Sealy, Texas, will be 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 10, 2011 at Guardian Angel Catholic Church in Wallis with Rev. Thuy Quang Nguyen and Deacon Jerome Losak celebrating the funeral mass and rite of committal. Interment in the Guardian Angel Cemetery in Wallis.
Pallbearers are Leroy Rosenauer, Lefty Hanzelka, Frank Reznicek, John Dyer, Rick Haidusek and Ben Stolarski.
Visitation is from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 9, 2011 with Rosary and Wake service at 7 p.m. at Guardian Angel Catholic Church in Wallis.
Emilie Marie Lamer was born in the Mixville Community to parents John and Mary Regina Bednar Lamer on Feb. 13, 1921. She was raised in Mixville and attended public school there. Millie married John C. Vazansky on Oct. 5, 1943. She was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Frydek. Millie "Mimi" loved baking, cooking, traveling gardening, flowers and playing lotto.
Mrs. Vazansky is survived by daughter, Carol Jo Stuchly and husband, Rudy, of Sealy; son, John F. Vazansky and wife, Sophie Ann, of Richmond; sister, Frances Janecek and husband, Wilbert, of Sealy; sisters-in-law, Hattie Divin of Waller and Irene Ludwig of Mobile, Alabama; grandchildren, Air Force Captain Travis Vazansky P.E. and Brett Vazansky, Ryan Stuchly; and beloved Darla Meader.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Regina Lamer; husband, John C. Vazansky; infant son, Benjamin Vazansky; and brother, Joe Lamer.
Services held under the direction of Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel. www.knesekfuneralhome.com.
Verm, Clement Paul, Sr. (1942-2023)
[Family] Father: Brooks Verm, Mother: Bertha Cieslewicz, Spouse: Linda [Cemetery] Holy Cross Cemetery () , FG
Clement Verm was born on April 13, 1942, in Sealy, Texas to Brooks and Bertha Cieslewicz Verm and went to be with our gracious Lord and Savior on February 19, 2023.
Clement is preceded in death by his parents' Brooks and Bertha Verm, and his three children Clement Jr. (Boogie), Robert (Bobby), and Robin (Sissy).
Clement is survived by his wife Linda, son Donald and four grandchildren Robert Schnieder, Adam Adams, Brooke Verm, and Austin Verm. One of the great-grandson Trebor and his sisters Margaret Slanina and Cathy Verm Moss.
Clement graduated from Sealy High School in 1960. He worked highway construction, at Sealy feed yards where he and his cousins would occasionally ride their horses to work from Frydek. Later he worked at Uvalde Tile Company in Houston and retired from Hanson Sand and Gravel.
He enjoyed going to check on the farm and visiting with friends. He ate at Tony's on a daily basis. He looked forward to Tuesday's dinner with grandson Adam and on Friday with Boy Co.
He was a very kind and caring person who will be dearly missed.
Vermillion, Harry Boyd (1934-2013)
[Veteran] National Guard [Family] Father: Jesse Vermillion, Mother: Louise Dooley, Spouse: Marilyn ()
Bellville Times
Harry Boyd Vermillion, 78, passed away Monday, February 18, 2013, at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital in Houston. Harry was born Aug. 4, 1934, to Jesse and Louise Dooley Vermillion, in Shamrock, Texas.
In 1953, Harry graduated from Shamrock High School. He served in the National Guard and he was a plant operator for Valero.
He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn, on August 30, 1954.
Harry was a dedicated member of the Cowboy Church in Brenham. Harry and Marilyn rode the Salt Grass Trail ride for 17 years. He enjoyed gardening, riding horses, playing on his ipad, wood carving and working at 7iL Ranch.
Harry is survived by his wife- Marilyn; Sons- Randall and Donald; and daughter- Rita; grandchildren- Chad, Beau, Brianna, Darci, Jacob, Brooks, Scott, Bridget, Ben and Madelyn; and 7 great grandchildren. Harry is also survived by sisters- Laverne and Betty. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister.
Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the- Cowboy Church of Brenham, Building Fund, P.O. Box 2516, Brenham, Texas 77834
Funeral arrangements under the direction of the Schmidt Funeral Home, P.O. Box 610, 12029 Hwy. 36 South, Bellville, Texas 77418 - (979)865-2424 - www.schmidtfunerals.com
Posted by Joy Neely
Vick, Alfred Emil (1924-1999)
[Veteran] WW2, USAAF, Pacific [Family] Father: Emil Fritz Vick, Mother: Lena Staffa, Spouse: Beulah May Poorman (Cremated) , FG
Alfred Emil Vick, 75, of Orchard, lost his courageous battle against cancer Nov. 29, 1999. He was born May 14, 1924 in Orchard to Emil Fritz and Lena Staffa Vick. He was reared in the Orchard area and graduated from Orchard High School.
He was a decorated veteran of the Army Air Force, serving in the Pacific Theater. On July 22, 1944, he married Beulah May Poorman. His long career in the petroleum industry encompassed the world.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Lena (Staffa) Vick; his sister, Ella Mae Vick; and two brothers, George Vick and Lawrence Vick.
He is survived by his wife, Beulah May; a brother, James Vick; a son, Don; daughters, Merry Sue, Peggy, and Sally; sons-in-law, Kenneth Hajdik, Peter Key, and Neal Mahler; nine grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Alfred's quick wit, entertaining stories, adventurous spirit, sound advice, and generous nature, will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.
A memorial service in celebration of his life will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5, at the United Methodist Church in Orchard.
For those wishing, the family requests that memorial donations be made to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Research Department, P.O. Box 297153, Houston, Texas 77297-053.
Vick, Ella Mae (1920-1977)
[Veteran] WW2, WO, US Navy [Family] Father: Emil Fritz Vick, Mother: Lena Staffa () , FG
Herald Coaster, November 20, 1977:
Funeral rites for Miss Ella Mae Vick, 56, a former Fort Bend County resident recently of California, were held at 10 a.m. Saturday at Guardian Angel Catholic Church in Wallis.
Miss Vick died Friday, Nov. 11, in California after a short illness.
The rosary was read at 8 p.m. Friday at the Davis-Dawson Funeral Home Chapel in Rosenberg.
Survivors include her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Vick of Orchard; four brothers, George Vick of Houston, Alfred Vick of Orchard, Lawrence Vick of Senora, and James Vick of Sugar Land.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Davis-Dawson Funeral Home in Rosenberg.
Viereck, Charles Arthur (1940-2013)
[Veteran] Korea, US Navy [Family] Father: Melvin C. Viereck, Mother: Lenora Stuessel, Spouse: Ruth [Cemetery] Oak Knoll Cemetery (C - 99 47) , FG
Bellville Times
Charles A. Viereck, 73, lifelong resident of Bellville, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2013, in Bellville St. Joseph Health Center.
Charles was born July 2, 1940, in Bellville, Texas, to parents Melvin and Lenora Steussel Viereck. He grew up and attended school in Bellville, graduating from Bellville High School in 1958.
He served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge, Charles married Ruth Janik at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellville. They made their home in Bellville where they were members of St. John Lutheran Church.
Charles was employed as a heavy equipment operator for Huebner Concrete retiring in 2010 after 56 years of service. He always enjoyed working and having a cold beer.
Charles is survived by his daughter Donna Chovanec and her husband, David, of Bellville, son Michael Viereck and his companion, Linda Sutton, also of Bellville; grandchildren Jennifer Gerloff and her husband, David, of Elgin, Erica Keller and her husband, Cory, of Bellville, and Braden Chovanec also of Bellville; and great grandchildren Kymberlyn and Brylan Gerloff, and Cheyenne and Colt Keller. Also surviving Charles is his brother Douglas Viereck and his wife, Teri, of Magnolia; brothers-in-law Eugene Janik and his wife Elaine, Vernon Janik, and Larry Janik and his wife, Donna, all of El Campo; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Ruth, parents, Melvin and Lenora Viereck, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rudolph and Martha Janik and grandson Austin Chovanec in 1993.
Visitation- Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013, 5-7 p.m. at Schmidt Funeral Home, Bellville.
Funeral service- Funeral service, 10 a.m., Schmidt Funeral Home Chapel, Pastor Bill Schwertlich, officiating.
Interment- Oak Knoll Cemetery, Bellville.
Pallbearers- Duwayne Pfeffer, Glen Huebner, Gene Huebner, Russell Schroeder, Larry Janik, Vernon Janik.
Honorary pallbearers- Mr. Viereck's grandchildren, great grandchildren, Dr. Welton Hill, Yolanda Anderson and Jessie Bishop.
Friends who wish make memorial gifts to- Bellville St. Joseph Health Center, PO Box 977, Bellville, TX 77418, or to- Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 East Blue Bell Road, Brenham, TX 77833.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of the Schmidt Funeral Home, P.O. Box 610, 12029 hwy. 36 South, Bellville, Texas 77418 (979)865-2424 - www.schmidtfunerals.com
Posted by Joy Neely
Villa, James (1938-2024)
[Veteran] Vietnam, USAF, 1961-65, 307 OMS B 47E's SAC [Family] Father: Manuel Villa, Mother: Jessie James ()
James Villa 85 of Bellville, Texas passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loved ones.
James was born in Bellville, Texas on November 17th 1938, and was the chosen son of Mr. Manuel Villa and Mrs. Jessie Villa. James grew up in Bellville and was the first in the Villa family to graduate high school, with a strong love for family, animals, agriculture, mechanics. He was a strong science and math student, and a 4-year member of the FFA team.
He continued farming watermelon and cattle with his family while attending Blinn Junior college and then transferring to A&M University before joining the air force to start some of what would be the best years of his life.
He excelled in everything he did and worked his way into his most loved position of his life, crew chief, in the 307th bomb wing as an airman and involved in the Strategic Air Command. He was an avid aircraft mechanic with passion for building and maintaining bombers. One of his beloved aircraft that completely had his heart was the B-47 6244 bomber. He was responsible for everything on this aircraft. He also had training as aircraft tech, Jet aircraft Mechanic, and mir-misc equipment tech.
He was honorably discharged in 1965 and would continue a career with the Texas Department of Transportation (Texas Highway Dept). He retired from TxDot, only then to continue his life as a contractor for the Austin County Water Supply. He was a hard hard worker with a work ethic one could only wish they knew, with a strong dedication to his employers and working right up until he was 85 years of age.
In James' spare time James loved traveling, taking pictures, writing his own experiences and life stories and working on all of his prized farm equipment. His favorite hobby though, would be building model cars and model aircraft all from scratch. He was a true artist when it came to building these huge models. Something you could only believe if you actually see them.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel and Jessie Villa; his uncles, Joe and Jessie Villa, and was survived by numerous family friends who loved him dearly.
Services of James' wishes will be held on Monday March 11th, 2024. This will include a visitation from 5-7pm at Miller-Josey Mortuary at 428 West Meyer St Bellville, Texas 77418. Following will be a burial on March 12th at 3pm with a 21 gun salute at the Danish Cemetery Association, 18531 N. 56th St. Davey, NE 68336.
If you know James' story then you know why he chose this location. It is a beautiful story that few have heard in its entirety, but it meant the world to him and it is an honor for his family to fulfill his final wishes.
https://www.millerjosey.com/obituaries/James-Villa
Villasana, Abraham, Jr. (1993-2013)
[Family] Father: Abraham Villasana, Mother: Nubia [Cemetery] Oak Knoll Cemetery (C)
Bellville Times
Abraham Villasana, Jr. was born to Abraham and Nubia Villasana in Galveston on June 27, 1993. He passed away on Dec. 7, 2013.
Abraham grew up in Bellville and graduated from Bellville High School in 2011. He loved to play soccer and basketball. He always had a smile on his face and could brighten anyone's day.
Abraham is survived by his parents, Abraham and Nubia Villasana; sisters, Grecia, Lizeth, Ana and Victoria Villasana; brothers, Isaac Villasana and Jesus Zarate; girlfriend, Adalina Garcia.
Visitation was from 5-8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 9, 2013 at Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel, Bellville, Texas.
Funeral Service was at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, December 10, 2013 at Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel, Bellville, Texas.
Pastor Lazaro Gonzalez officiated.
Pallbearers- Josue Villasana, Jesus Zarate, Samuel Villasana, Jacob Villasana, Eduardo Villasana, Jose Estrada, Luis Estrada and Ivan Alonso.
Interment followed at Oak Knoll Cemetery, Bellville, Texas
Funeral arrangements by Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel - Bellville.
Knesekfuneralhome.com
Posted by Joy Neely
Villman, Eugene Lawson (1923-2013)
[Veteran] WW2, US Army, So. Pacific 3 1/2 yrs [Family] Father: August A. Villman, Mother: Bertha Henkel, Spouse: Lillie Mae Engelmohr [Cemetery] Pilgrims Rest Cemetery #01 ()
Bellville Times
Eugene Lawson Villman was born to August A. and Bertha (Henkel) Villman in Houston, Texas, on May 20, 1923. He passed away on Dec. 21, 2013.
In his long life, Mr. Villman accomplished many things and fulfilled many dreams. Eugene grew up in Houston and graduated from Jeff Davis High School. As a young man in World War II, he earned several service medals fighting in Guadalcanal and Okinawa.
When he returned home, he met the love of his life, Lillie Mae Engelmohr, married her on June 18, 1950, and had 63 wonderful years. He also began a love of flying, earning his pilot's license.
Later in life, he became a Bellville farmer who fully enjoyed his retirement. He particularly loved his family, dogs and horses.
He was a member of First Baptist Church - Brenham.
Eugene is preceded in death by his parents; August and Bertha Villman; brothers, Clarence, Dawson (twin), August, and sister, Mary Louise.
He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Kazmir and husband, James, and Cindy Kingham and husband, Rick; son, Larry Villman and wife, Susan; grandchildren, Crystal Garza and husband, Jesse; Adam Kazmir and wife, Bonita; Andrea Godbold and husband, Evan; and Ricky Kingham, Jr. and great grandchildren, Emily Garza, Corbin and Piper Kazmir, and Liam Godbold.
Visitation was from 9 a.m. until Funeral Service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013 at Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel, 842 E. Main St., Bellville, Texas.
Pastor Troy Sikes officiated.
Funeral arrangements by Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel - Bellville
Knesekfuneralhome.com
Posted by Joy Neely
Vince, Allen (1785-1849)
SFA Old 300, Notable person [Veteran] Early Wars [Family] Father: Richard Vince, Mother: Flora Ann Campbell Strickland, Spouse: Matilda Welborn () , FG
Allen Vince was a partner of Mosis A. Callahan when they received title to a sitio in what is now Harris County on August 3, 1824. In April 30, 1831, Vince received an additional half league in eastern Grimes County and Montgomery County, and in 1838 he received a labor of land in Harrisburg County.
ExternalWebsite; TSHA; ; https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/vince-allen
Vince, Robert (1793-1836)
SFA Old 300, Notable person [Family] Father: Richard Vince, Mother: Flora Ann Campbell Strickland () , FG , FS
Vince was partner with his brother Richard Vince when they came to Texas in 1822 with their brothers Allen and William Vince. On August 21, 1824, Robert and Richard received title to a sitio on the north side of Buffalo Bayou in what is now Harris County.
Vince, William (1797-1836)
SFA Old 300, Notable person [Family] Father: Richard Vince Sr, Mother: Flora Ann Campbell Strickland () , FG , FS
William Vince received title to a league of land in what is now Harris County on July 21, 1824, and a labor of land now in Harris County on November 21, 1832.
Virnau, Walter Arthur, Jr. (1932-2013)
[Veteran] Korea, EN3, US Navy, 1955-57 [Family] Father: Walter Arthur Virnau Sr, Mother: Juanita Delania DuBose, Spouse: Kathryn Wiggins [Cemetery] Sealy Cemetery (B)
Bellville Times
Funeral Services for Walter Virnau, Jr. were held on Monday, Sept. 30, 2013 at 10 a.m. from the First Baptist Church of Sealy with Rev. Merle Blado and Dr. Charles Owen officiating. Interment was in the Sealy Cemetery. Pallbearers were Weldon Bollinger, Larry Pavalu, John Hovas, Tony Ramos, Erich Lessing and Dennis Williams. Honorary Pallbearers were Jack Craig, Fred Oberhelman, Dennis Holder, Jack Carlin, Erwin Boyle, Darrell Hollis, Max Noles, Lawrence Sopchak and David Miller.
Walter Arthur Virnau, Jr. died in his home with his wife, Kathryn, by his side on Thursday, Sept. 26, 2013. He was born on July 23, 1932, in Alexandria, La. He was the fourth of five sons born to Walter and Juanita Virnau. The family moved to Sealy in 1944, and Walter graduated from Sealy High School five years later. He then went on to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Houston.
Walter was drafted into the U.S. Navy in 1955, where his college experience aided him in his responsibilities as a mechanic in the engineering department aboard the USS Tortuga. He returned to Sealy in 1957, where he joined his brother, Harry, and their father, Walter Sr., helping with the family rice farm, which is still in production today. Also, in 1958, Walter and his friend Leroy Brast started the Virnau Machine Shop, maintaining the farm's equipment in a hut behind the Virnaus' home. In 1961, Walter Sr, Walter Jr, and Harry opened a Massey Ferguson dealership under the name W.A. Virnau and Sons. In 1973, the dealership was relocated to the 14 acres off of Highway 36 it stands on today. In 1997, Walter purchased Sealy Tractor & Implement from Edward Krchnak, merging the company into what it is known as today, W.A. Virnau and Sons, Sealy Tractor Inc. Walter met his wife, Kathryn Wiggins, on a January Sunday night at First Baptist Church of Sealy, and the couple married in July of 1960. They recently celebrated 53 years of marriage. Walter had many passions in life. Among them were his love for antiques and collectables, particularly antique automobiles. His favorite car was his yellow, 1931 Ford Model ATouring Car. His love of photography and travel went hand-in-hand. Walter, Kathryn, their family, and often friends of their family, enjoyed many fabulous trips together. Another passion of Walter's throughout his life was his rice farm. It brought his great enjoyment, especially in his later years. Walter was not only a leader in his family, but his church and community as well. He touched many lives, and will be dearly missed by all. Walter is survived by his wife, Kathryn, his eldest son Dwayne, his son Stephen and wife Kim, his son Jeff and wife Melissa, his daughter Karen Virnau King, 10 grandchildren, one great-granddaughter, his brother Bill and wife Verlin, and five nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Walter Sr. and Juanita, and three brothers, Richard, Harry, and Donald.
Knesek Funeral Home in Sealy in charge of arrangements. www.knesekfuneralhome.com
Posted by Joy Neely
Vitek, Justin John "JJ" (1973-2010)
Nickname: JJ [Family] Father: Edward Vitek, Mother: Kathy [Cemetery] Guardian Angel Cemetery () [COD] Cancer
Justin John (J.J.) Vitek. 36. passed away peacefully, Thursday, January 28, 2010 surrounded by family and friends after losing his battle with cancer. He was born March 28, 1973 in Houston, Texas to Edward and Kathy Vitek. While attending Sul Ross University, he met Sean Wright and Edwin Eppenauer who was responsible for getting him started in his career as a jockey, which became his life's passion. As he raced coast-to-coast he touched many lives. His long legacy of compassion and his vibrant smile will carry on through his daughter, Bree. Justin was a devoted father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, who was the very best at love, strength, courage, sacrafice, dignity and faith. He was met at the gates of Heaven by his grandparents, Monica and Justin Vitek, Gertie and John Haw and uncle Rance. He is survived by his daughter, Bree Vitek, his parents, Edward and Kathy Vitek, sister and brother-in-law, Kim and Bobby Heath, nieces, Jamie Gresham and Genifer Heath and nephews, Justin Gresham and Travis Heath. Funeral services 10:00 A.M. Monday, February 1, 2010 at Guardian Angel Catholic Church, 2610 Demel St., Wallis, Texas 77485 with Rev. Thuy Quang Nguyen celebrating the funeral mass. Visitation at Knesek and Sons Funeral Home, 122 North First St., Wallis, Texas 77485, (979)478-6311. Sunday, January 31, 2010 from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm, Rosary at 5:00 pm. In Lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made to Don Macbeth Memorial Fund or M.D. Anderson Stem Cell Research.
https://www.knesekfuneralhome.com/obituary/4317811
Voelkel, August Fred (1935-2020)
[Veteran] Korea, SGT, US Army, 6 Apr 1953-6 Apr 60, Germany [Family] Father: Oscar Branch Voelkel, Mother: Alice Simmank, Spouse: Doris Mae Dippel [Cemetery] Shelby Cemetery () , FG
August Voelkel, 84, of Shelby, Texas, died on June 14, 2020, in Shelby. Burial will be at Shelby Cemetery.
Mr. Voelkel was born in Shelby, Texas, on July 17, 1935, to the late Oscar and Alice Simmank Voelkel. He was baptized on September 4, 1946, and confirmed on September 8, 1946. He was united in marriage to Doris Mae Dippel, on November 23, 1957. He worked as a banker and retired in 2000. He served in the United States Army as an interpreter during the Berlin Crisis.
He was a member of the Shelby American Legion Post 602, Shelby VFD, St. Paul Lutheran Church, Meals on Wheels, Sons of Hermann, and Fayetteville Masonic Lodge #240. Every year before Veterans Day and Memorial Day, he would get together with his brother, Oscar, and they would put about seventy-five flags out on Veteran's graves on seven cemeteries in the Shelby area.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Norfleet Voelkel and Don Voelkel; and sister, Mabel Weatherford.
Survivors include his wife, Doris Voelkel, of Industry, TX; sons, Brian Voelkel and his wife, Denise, of Houston, and Brad Voelkel and his wife, Britney, of Shelby, TX; daughter, Denise Jones Wiggins and her husband, Randall, of Bellville, TX; former- son-in-law, Keith Jones, of Bleiblerville, TX; grandchildren, Brandon Jones and his wife, Jessie, Britney Jones and his wife, Marci, Shelby Voelkel, Austin Voelkel, and Addyson Voelkel; great-granddaughter, Kaitlin Jones; brother, Oscar Voelkel Jr. and his wife, Marie; and faithful furry companions, Tux, Goldie, and Tigger. Z5
Voigt, Robert (1832-)
[Veteran] CWCSA, CAPT, Waul's Texas Legion, 1st Batt, Co. C. ()
Married from Industry. Recruited the company from Industry, Bellville, Houston, Chappell Hill, and towns in the Industry area. Letters describe Christmas 1862 celebration in Grenada and review by President Davis. Captured at Yazoo City on July 14, 1863. Sent to prison camp in Ohio. Kept a diary held at the University of Texas - Austin, Briscoe Center for American History. Buried Section B, Washington Cemetery, Houston. Captured at Yazoo City on July 14, 1863. Received at Camp ___, OH on Aug 3, 1863.
Volkening, Amelia (Beyer) (1844-1918)
Maiden Name: Beyer [Family] Father: Fredrick Beyer, Mother: Julia Seydler, Spouse: Paul Theodor Heinrich Volkening, Children: Julie, Benno, Agnes, Artie [Cemetery] Volkening Family Cemetery () , FS
Born in Germany; died in Harris County; Married Paul on 5/18/1972 in Washington County.
Volkening, Bernice Estell (Strauss) (1918-2010)
Maiden Name: Strauss [Family] Father: Herman Adolf Strauss, Mother: Olga Kollatschny, Spouse: Vertis Bertram Volkening, Children: Sheila, Janis [Cemetery] Cat Spring (Kollatschny) Cemetery () , FG , FS
Bernice Estell Volkening passed away peacefully in her childhood home in Cat Spring on Nov. 10, 2010. She was a loving mother, doting grandmother and great grandmother, devoted wife, dedicated church leader, talented teacher, mentor and friend
Mrs. Volkening was born March 3, 1918 to Herman Adolph Strauss and Olga Kollatschny-Strauss in the small German community of Cat Spring in Austin County. She learned early on to mix simple pleasures with hard work, responsibility and community service. While attending the 10-grade, two room Cat Spring School, she played the pump organ at St. John Lutheran Church, fed chickens and pigs, milked cows and helped her father at his general store. She quickly adopted his credo, "Mann kann doch Leute helfen" (People can help people).
Following her high school graduation and lacking sufficient funds for a university education, she moved to Houston to attend Massey Business College and was soon employed as a bookkeeper at a wholesale firm. At this time she met Vertis Volkening from Cat Spring's neighboring town of Bellville. After a 3-year courtship, they married on June 15, 1940 and moved to Freeport where her husband became one of the first chemical engineers at the newly opened Dow Chemical plant. They resided in the Brazosport area for more than 30 years while raising four children, being founding members of the St. Paul American Lutheran Church of Freeport and being active in numerous school and community organizations.
In addition to being an active and devoted mother, Bernice felt the need to help support the family financially. Once her youngest child entered elementary school, she began earning her college degree by taking extension courses, night classes and commuting to local community colleges to earn academic credits. Her industriousness was never better demonstrated than in the summer of 1961. Needing 21 credit hours to graduate from the University of Houston, she earned 22 hours during two 6-week summer sessions, earned her BS degree in Mathematics in August and in September was teaching mathematics at Brazosport Senior High School.
After two decades of teaching high school math, mentoring and inspiring students and fellow teachers alike, she retired. Moving first to Bellville, she eventually returned to her childhood home which is located next to her beloved father's general store in Cat Spring. Bernice reactivated her service to St. John Lutheran Church, indulged her talent in writing and art, actively embraced the activities of her hometown and primarily doted on her four children, five grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Bernice was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Olga Strauss, her husband, Vertis Bertram Volkening, sister Evelyn Fricke and brother-in-law Hilmer Fricke and brother Wilbert Dale Strauss and sister-in-law Dorcie Strauss.
She is survived by her children, daughter Sheila and husband Arman Prescott; daughter Janis and husband Stephen Ottmers; sons Larry and Ronnie Volkening; grandchildren Arman Prescott, Jr., Michael Prescott, Gretchen Ottmers, and Ronnie's children Jennifer and Joshua Volkening; great grandchildren Alex, Lauren and Amber Prescott, children of Arman, Jr. and wife Donna; and Ashley and Brittany Prescott, children of Michael. Numerous nieces and nephews.
Organizations important to Bernice include- St. John Lutheran Church of Cat Spring, Bellville Hospital Auxiliary and Cat Spring Volunteer Fire Department. Individuals wishing to honor Bernice with a memorial may consider these or a beneficiary of their choice.
Volkening, Paul Theodore (1831-1910)
[Family] Father: Johann Heinrich Volkening, Mother: Catherine Elisabeth Jacobs, Spouse: Amelia Beyer, Children: Julie, Benno, Agnes, Artie [Cemetery] Volkening Family Cemetery () , FS
immigrated from Germany (actually was a German sailor who deserted his ship in NYC in 1859). He was in the 1870 census in Bellville. He was born 12/30/1831 in Gutersloh, Germany and died May 10, 1910.
Vomkahl, Melvin Earl (1932-2014)
[Veteran] _ [Family] Father: Henry Vornkahl, Mother: Minnie, Spouse: Edy Untermeyer ()
Bellville Times
Melvin Earl Vomkahl passed away peacefully on June 17, 2014 in Conroe Health Care, Conroe, Texas. He was born Aug. 25, 1932 in Bellville and grew up in the Peter's Community.
Survivors include wife, Edy Untermeyer Vornkahl, daughter Linda Kay Knight and husband, Nolan, grandson Stephen Paras and wife. Jenny, grandson, Jeffery Paras and wife, Dianna, granddaughter Lindsey Boze and husband, J. R., great granddaughter, Kailyn Paras, stepdaughter. Darlene Untermeyer Cassell and husband, Wayne, brothers Henry Vomkahl and wife, Barbara, of Houston and Leroy Vornkahl and Pat, of Peters Community.
He was predeceased by parents, Henry and Minnie Vornkahl, sisters Willie Mae Buntzel and husband, Waco, and Lorene Vornkahl, son David Vornkahl, son-in-law Stephen Paras and stepdaughter Diane Untermeyer.
He graduated from Bellville High School in 1950 and attended Texas A&M University and the University of Houston, He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1951, but a heart condition suggested a medical discharge. He then worked for the United States Postal Service just short of 50 years before retiring. He worked with his wife at Keller Williams Real Estate for five years before suffering a disabling accident which confined him to a wheel chair for four years.
Melvin loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter. He also had a passionate love of the Lord and was a faithful member of Lakeside Bible Church,
Special recognition is given to Dr. Michael Chang, caregivers, Danny Parrot, Arthur Warren and Kelly Ebert.
Memorial service, was held Saturday, June 28, 2014 at 2 p.m. at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home, 20850 Eva Street, Montgomery, Texas 77356.
Memorials may be made to Lakeside Bible Church, 18940 Freeport Drive. Montgomery, Texas 77356.
Posted by Joy Neely
Vornkahl, Barbara (Lauhoff) (-2015)
Maiden Name: Lauhoff [Family] Spouse: Henry Lee Vornkahl ()
Bellville Times
The lovely Barbara Lauhoff Vornkahl, a long-time Houston resident, passed away on April 29, 2015, after a lengthy illness. She was 83. She had a vibrant spirit and a positive attitude throughout her life.
She dearly loved her family, especially her husband of 63 years, Henry Lee Vornkahl, who survives her. She is also survived by her three children, Greg Vornkahl and wife Marilyn; Mark Vornkahl and wife Karen; and Susan Vornkahl Paige and husband Hilliard Paige, Jr., as well as six cherished grandchildren.
She leaves behind her sister Rita Lauhoff Davis, her brother Tony Lauhoff and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 16, 2015, at 11-00 a.m. at Christ Memorial Lutheran Church at 14200 Memorial Drive, Houston.
Posted by Bruce White
Page Last Updated: 08 January 2025
